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By Adesuwa Tsan, Okwe Obi, Idu Jude (Abuja), Lateef Dada (Osogbo),
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has described the death of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, as the end of an era.
In a statement personally signed by him and made available to newsmen on yesterday, Akpabio expressed profound sadness over the passing of the elder statesman.
He described Pa Adebanjo, who died at the age of 96, as a selfless patriot who dedicated his life to the fight for truth, equity, and justice.
“Pa Adebanjo’s glorious exit at the age of 96 marks the end of an era, and as a people, we mourn the loss of a selfless patriot, who dedicated his life to fighting for truth, equity, and justice,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President praised the late Afenifere leader for his unwavering commitment to justice and equity, noting that his contributions had left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history.
“His unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and equity has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history. His leadership and vision inspired generations, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us to work towards a more just and equitable society,” he added.
Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, said Adebanjo was a patriot, soldier of democracy, and a respectable statesman. In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, @PNMbah, described the late nonagenarian as a courageous and principled leader, who said it exactly the way he saw it, irrespective of whose ox was gored.
“He was a forthright, courageous, and principled leader, who spoke the truth without fear or favour. Always at the vanguard of equity and justice, Pa Adebanjo stoutly defended what he believed to be true, right, and just.
“He was a soldier of democracy. Whether it was in the days of Pa Obafemi Awolowo or during the military era and the struggle for democracy under the auspices of the National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, he was fearless in the trenches, fighting for democracy and the blessings it promises.”
Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, in his condolence message noted that Pa Ayo Adebanjo was a guardian of Yoruba ideals, a relentless advocate for fairness, equity, and the true federalism upon which Nigeria was envisioned.
The monarch in a statement by the Director, Media & Public Affairs,
Ooni’s Palace, Moses Olafare, yesterday, said he celebrated the heroic passage of Adebanjo who died at the age of 96, noting that the late elder statesman was an iconic nationalist, elder statesman, and unshakable voice of the people.
Ooni maintained that Pa Adebanjo would be remembered for the justice he stood for and the fight for democracy and welfare of common man.
The Labour Party (LP) Directorate of Mobilization and Integration described the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo as a fearless statesman who stood for justice.
In a letter of tribute signed by the Director General of the LP Directorate of Mobilization and Integration, Marcel Ngogbehei, said as a supporter of progressive governance, Pa Adebanjo stood for the Labour Party and its vision for a new Nigeria.
“With a deep sense of loss but immense gratitude to God for a life well spent, we at the Labour Party Directorate of Mobilization and Integration extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Yoruba race, the leadership and members of Afenifere, and Nigerians at large on the passing of an icon of democracy, justice, and progressive ideals—Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
“Pa Adebanjo was not just a leader; he was a fearless statesman, a principled nationalist, and a tireless advocate for truth, fairness, and good governance. His unwavering commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and the restructuring of Nigeria was the hallmark of his lifelong struggle for a better nation.
“He remained steadfast in his belief that Nigeria must be built on justice, equity, and inclusivity—principles that define the progressive movement we continue to champion.”
In the same vein, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, in a statement paid tribute to the fallen chieftain of the Pan Yoruba Socio-political Organization Afenifere, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, saying: “He was one of the pillars that the expectant New Nigeria was standing on. His legacies etched his name on the annals of history as a great countryman, with indelible proofs of patriotism and heroism.
“He will forever be remembered as that selfless leader who sacrificed his lifetime as an upholder and proponent of true democracy and the Rule of Law. His commitment and steadfastness in leadership craftsmanship are reflected in the monumental achievement of the Afenifere organization.”
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